From the Rector – The Blessing of Our Work
Almighty God our heavenly Father,
you declare your glory and show forth your handiwork
in the heavens and in the earth:
Deliver us in our various occupations from the service of self alone,
that we may do the work you give us to do
in truth and beauty and for the common good;
for the sake of him who came among us as one who serves,
your Son Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns
with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
The above prayer, For Vocation in Daily Work, comes from The Book of Common Prayer (page 261), and it what we will use to bless everyone this Sunday, which we’re setting aside to celebrate that it takes all of our labor to support our society.
In the past we’ve blessed teachers and students, police officers and fire fighters. Conversation among the ministry chairs last summer raised up that we wanted a way to honor and recognize the various work that we all do – paid or not. And so this Sunday we’re inviting everyone to bring a token or symbol of their work to church with them. Whether you’re a contractor or an office administrator, a parent or a salesperson, retired or work part time or volunteer – we want to offer a blessing of that work and send you forth in peace to love and serve God and neighbor.
Join us in the blessing of our work at both services and consider inviting a friend who could use a blessing too.
Yours in God’s peace,
Kristin+
Nursery School
One of the tougher acronyms for me to remember is NAEYC – it’s the National Association for the Education of Young Children. NAEYC is the professional organization for our Saint James’ Nursery School staff.
NAEYC holds the largest early childhood education conference in the world. This year it’s being held at the Washington Convention Center in Washington, DC. The conference runs Wednesday, November 14 through Saturday, November 17. It’s attended by thousands, including our Saint James’ Nursery School staff. It offers our educators a
chance to choose from hundreds of presentations and exhibits that explore the best practices, trends, and research in the field of early childhood education. It’s an excellent opportunity to connect with colleagues, gain professional development, and explore new ideas in the profession.
This year’s keynote presentation reflects on the legacy of Fred Rogers through the documentary film “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” A panel discusses the impact Fred Rogers made in promoting the importance of early childhood education. His widow, Joanne Rogers will also join the discussion to reflect on her husband’s accomplishments in cultivating early childhood education
The conference supports the mission of promoting high-quality learning for all young children. We’re glad to be able to participate – it’s an investment in our children.
Quartermania
QUARTERMANIA VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!!
Our Quartermania fundraising event is only a few weeks away on December 7th, therefore, we need several people to help post fliers at the local businesses by approximately NOV 23rd—you may choose the area of town you prefer and it will only take 30-45 minutes to accomplish this easy task. Many hands will make light work—PLEASE VOLUNTEER!
If you would be interested in helping with postings or at the event itself, there is a sign-up sheet in the narthex or you may contact me, Marilyn Hancock, at Ladyzip2004@yahoo.com or 301-788-0136. Your help will be greatly appreciated!
3 WEEKS UNTIL HOLIDAY QUARTERMANIA!!!
Yes, it really is that close!! Mark your calendars now for our Holiday Quartermania event at the church on FRIDAY, DEC 7th; the doors will open at 6 pm with the games beginning at 7 pm. Delicious refreshments will also be available for purchase throughout the evening.
For those who may not know, Quartermania is a game that can be played by anyone from three to 93–a great family activity! Imagine a game that combines Bingo and an Auction using only quarters with lots of prizes to bid on! This will be a great night to begin your holidays by gathering with your family and friends to win special gifts for yourself and your loved ones.
E-mail judysquartermanias@aol.com or call Judy @ 240-674-1961 to advance reserve a seat for $5 (a $3 discount!); admission fees will be collected at the door. Come join us to begin your holidays with this fun and entertaining game!
WEEKLY ANNOUNCEMENTS
Office Hours For Laura Week of November 18
Monday through Wednesday 10-4.
Office closed Thursday and Friday for Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving Food Drive
Thanks to all who signed up to donate to the Thanksgiving dinners. Please bring your food donation to the church by Sunday, November 18 at the 10:30 service. Please see Cheryl or Jeannie if you have questions.
Hand Knit Scarves, Shawls, and Cowls
Made by Lucy Winston with yarn from local farms will be available tor sale starting Sunday, November 25 between our two services. Proceeds will go to St. James’. Buy a gift or treat yourself!
Greens Needed for Advent Wreaths
Our Family Advent Wreath Making will take place at 9:30 on December 2. Please bring donations of greens, pinecones, and ribbons for decorating to the lower level that morning. Also, please bring wire cutters to share.
Prayer Rotation
Please join the Daughters of the King in praying for each parishioner in rotation during 2018 by taking this notice home and by posting it where it will remind you to pray on a daily basis for the needs and blessings of:
Paul and Charlotte Oswald
Tom and Julie Patterson (Conor, Jason, Caleb, Kaitlyn)
Peg Pelch
A member of the Daughters of the King will be contacting you this week for special prayer requests.
